Thanks to 20th century advancements in communication and transportation, much of the population is mobile, able to communicate and aware of the rest of the world. One hundred years ago, geography books called Africa, “a largely unexplored continent.” Today, the United States has diplomatic headquarters throughout Africa. What a difference 100 years makes.

For the poor and oppressed around the world, the efforts of missionaries, members of the military and other humanitarians have brought knowledge of the abundance of opportunities available in developed countries. The story of the United States, the history of the first settlers, the tales of rags to riches, the major inventions and advancements spawned by the ability to think, act and speak freely have lured immigrants from around the world. For those closest to our borders who suffer totalitarian governments or grinding poverty, their human spirit sends them across the borders to make a better life for their families.

You are currently not logged inBy logging in you can see the full story.